Founded in the proud tradition of Lions Clubs International, the “Lion of the Year” award is bestowed each year at the sole discretion of the President of the Lions Club of Lago Vista, Texas. This honor recognizes the club member who, in the President’s judgment, has made the greatest impact in advancing the objectives of Lionism and the goals of our Club.

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This year’s LOY winner has been instrumental in forming the fundraising strategies for the Club in a year where our primary fundraising event, the golf tournament, could not be carried out due to the threat of golf course renovations.

The winner's accomplishments are many. Under his leadership and hands-on implementation, the well-known and highly regarded Lago Vista Lions Silent Auction Program has had a record-breaking year bringing in over $20,000 into the club's coffers.

And although impact on raising funds is not the only consideration for this award, it is an important criterion since so much of what we do for our many causes is driven by the funds we have available to disperse; Including scholarships awarded to LV Seniors, food purchased for the Hunger program, not to mention the many substantial donations to non-profits in Lago Vista including the Arts, Lago Vista Volunteers, and Keep Lago Vista Beautiful to mention only a few.

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Beyond the Silent Auction the impact of this year’s winner has been felt throughout our community: from being the President of the Library Board, to serving on our scholarship committee, to enlisting local restaurants to contribute a share of their daily profits in support of the hunger initiative. He also has led a work party to beautify Library Park, and even pitched in on the plastics recycling program.  For the unique and memorable Cactus & Casks evening of spirits, he brought the concept to the table, organized the distilleries, and has pretty much single-handedly brought in and organized all of the artwork on display.

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His team-building skills are evident in his organization of the Silent Auction posse, and in pulling together social outings for the club – do I dare remind you of our trip to Esther’s Follies?

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For his indomitable spirit, unwavering commitment, and extraordinary service to our Club and community, it is my great honor to present the 2025 Lion of the Year Award—to Jerry Nilsson-Weiskott - despite his being responsible for that bus ride to Esther’s Follies.

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Congratulations, Jerry, and thank you for embodying the very best of Lionism!